Scientists at Indiana University are delineating the molecular and cellular activities of the conserved regenerative pathway, Lin-28, that is involved in developmental timing and regulates the self-renewal of stem cells. Essential details about this pathway, its mRNA targets, mechanism of action and regulation are currently unknown. In a recent study, scientists reported that fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP) functions via LIN-28 to control the behavior of intestine progenitor cells in response to nutrition. Since the loss of FMRP in humans causes fragile X syndrome (FXS), the study raises the possibility that defective adaptive growth might be causing pathological conditions that are affecting FXS patients.
Strategic Plan Section
Developing Models of Human Diseases - Continue to develop and enhance human disease models and research-related resource programs to advance medical research